On April 20, the “IBD Mode On” journey officially moved on to Stop 2 under the theme “FEEL THE IBD SPIRIT – SHAPE YOUR IDENTITY, BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY”—a memorable milestone for candidates admitted early for Spring 2025 and those interested in the IBD@NEU program. The event offered not only memorable bonding experiences but also an opportunity for participants to gradually shape their personal identities and gain a clear sense of IBD’s distinctive learning environment.

From the moment they entered the familiar D2 space, new students were welcomed by exceptionally friendly IBD-ers and lecturers.

At check-in, each participant received a small piece of paper on which to write an encouraging message to themselves or express a wish for the years of youth ahead with IBD. Each note was a piece of an emotional mosaic—quiet yet full of hope—helping give that morning’s atmosphere its distinctive character.

Students enthusiastically leave messages for the program.

Attending the event was MSc. Le Dieu Linh, a staff member of the Department of Cooperation and Development who directly oversees the orientation activity series for students admitted early. At “Stop 2: Feel the IBD Spirit,” she offered not only a warm welcome but also shared expectations and inspiring messages for the future generation of IBD-ers. With her approachable manner and understanding of students’ feelings, she helped ease some of their initial uncertainty and encouraged them to embark confidently on a new journey—one in which they would not only study but also shape their identities and develop holistically.

MSc. Le Dieu Linh welcomes the candidates.

From the very beginning, new students were divided into teams and seated together to start getting acquainted. The classroom atmosphere quickly became warmer and more welcoming than ever, as shy glances gradually gave way to laughter and spontaneous conversations among new acquaintances. An essential part of the experience was the support of fellow IBD-ers—the enthusiastic, friendly senior students who were always ready to help, even with the smallest things. Their thoughtful guidance and positive energy turned those first encounters into a truly fulfilling beginning—gentle, warm, and full of affection.

Images of senior IBD-ers interacting with the students and getting to know them.

After the initial introductions, the teams quickly began Colorful Adventure—a colorful, challenging journey exploring the D2 classroom building. More than simply a physical game, this was their first bonding activity, where they learned to listen, cooperate, and support one another through engaging game stations. Teams worked together to decode secret messages, track down clues, and overcome mental and physical challenges, all requiring quick thinking, creativity, and, above all, teamwork. The familiar D2 classroom building suddenly became an “adventure map,” with each floor presenting a new challenge and every hallway corner offering an opportunity to learn more about IBD and one another.

Students enjoy getting to know one another while tackling challenges in the Colourful Adventure race.

A highlight of the Mode-On journey at Stop 2 was a management taster class with MSc. Bui Thu Van, a lecturer at the University. With her approachable manner, professional expertise, and enthusiasm, she gave the students an exciting and informative first lesson. Through candid, practical, and inspiring insights, she helped them better understand their chosen field and begin to map out their learning and personal development paths for the university years ahead. These first lessons with her will undoubtedly serve as valuable preparation, giving new IBD-ers further motivation to embark confidently on their future journey.

Bui Thu Van interacts with students in the classroom.

Rather than simply listening to a lecture, the special class with Bui Thu Van also gave new students an opportunity to “put themselves to the test” as future managers. Through a group business problem-solving activity (study case), they discussed ideas, analyzed the market, identified core problems, and proposed appropriate strategies. The classroom quickly came alive with brainstorming sessions full of creative ideas, sheets of paper covered in diagrams and models, and laughter as students challenged one another’s arguments.

Students enthusiastically discuss ideas and work together in groups.

The highlight of the activity was the class presentations, during which each group confidently presented its views and solutions and listened to feedback from the lecturer. Although it was only a “trial class,” the students truly immersed themselves in an authentic academic environment—one where knowledge was applied, thinking skills were sharpened, and confidence was nurtured.

Images of the groups presenting the results of their work.

By the end of the lesson and presentations, the groups had offered creative and promising perspectives on the real-world case study. Among them, Group 4 distinguished itself by winning the “Most Impressive Presentation” award, standing out for its logical analysis, clear strategy, and confident, professional delivery.

MSc. Bui Thu Van and MSc. Le Dieu Linh present the award to Group 4, which earned first prize in the presentations.

Congratulations to Group 2 on winning the Colourful Adventure race.

“Feel the IBD Spirit – Shape Your Identity, Begin Your Journey” was more than an experiential event—it marked a subtle transition between emotion and reason, between uncertainty and maturity, as candidates encountered IBD@NEU’s distinctive spirit of learning, thinking, and community for the first time. From the first introductions in a welcoming setting and colorful bonding games to a challenging and exciting simulated class, everything came together to create a memorable morning journey, laying the initial foundations for a university journey filled with color and confidence.

The event organizers pose for a commemorative photo with participating candidates.

The event has ended, but many exciting “stops” still await on the IBD Mode On journey. Stay tuned for upcoming activity series for candidates in the IBD@NEU international bachelor’s program!

Source: International School of Management and Economics

This is an automated translation. If you notice any errors, please contact the Department of Communications, National Economics University at phongtruyenthong@neu.edu.vn.